Stephen A. Smith argued on SiriusXM on Friday that Donald Trump's criticism of LeBron James served a political purpose before the midterms, defending the Philadelphia 76ers forward after the president condemned his conduct during the national anthem at Madison Square Garden.
Trump's criticism followed James stretching, swinging his arms and practising his golf swing and jump shot during 'The Star-Spangled Banner' on Tuesday. The Irish Star reported that other 76ers players stood solemnly. Trump then addressed James's behaviour in a Truth Social post on Thursday.